Acting Prime Minister condemns temple attack and calls Fiji’s unity a strength in the face of violence
Acting Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has condemned the violent attack on the Shree Baba Ragho Dass Vishnu Temple in Sawani, Nausori, calling the act a shameful affront to Fiji’s peaceful and multicultural society. The temple was targeted on Tuesday evening during a religious gathering, with unknown individuals allegedly throwing stones at the sacred site.
Kamikamica described the incident as a reprehensible act of violence and desecration that has no place in Fiji. He stressed that violence, intimidation, and religious bigotry will never be tolerated in the country, reaffirming Fiji’s longstanding pride in its diversity and the respect afforded to all faiths and traditions. He warned that an attack on one community is an attack on the peace and unity of the entire nation, and reminded the public that the nation’s strength lies in its multicultural makeup.
“The right to worship freely is enshrined in our Constitution, and every Fijian must be able to practise their faith without interference or fear,” the Acting Prime Minister stated. He also assured the Hindu community and all religious groups of the Government’s unwavering commitment to upholding this fundamental right.
The Fiji Police Force has launched a full investigation into the incident, with authorities pledging to bring those responsible to justice. Justice must be served to reaffirm the values of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect that underpin Fiji’s social fabric, Kamikamica said. He urged Fijians from all walks of life to rise above division and renew their commitment to love, unity, and respect.
Context from recent events shows a worrying pattern of attacks on places of worship across Fiji, drawing condemnation from leaders across the political spectrum. In the past days, similar acts at temples such as the Samabula Shiv Mandir in Suva and the Vunicuicui Shiv Mandir in Labasa have sparked calls for stronger protective measures, interfaith dialogue, and a renewed focus on unity. Government and community leaders alike have emphasized that safeguarding sacred spaces and promoting mutual respect are essential to maintaining Fiji’s harmony.
As part of their response, leaders have urged heightened cooperation between government, law enforcement, religious communities, and civil society to prevent future incidents and to promote understanding across faiths. Community members are encouraged to report threats or hate incidents and to participate in upcoming interfaith dialogues and community meetings designed to strengthen bonds between Fiji’s diverse religious communities.
A note for readers: editors are considering sidebars or quick-reference timelines highlighting recent temple-related incidents, along with practical guidance on reporting suspicious activity and finding local interfaith events. Such additions can help readers stay informed and engaged in efforts to protect places of worship and nurture social cohesion.
This event underscores a shared commitment among Fiji’s leaders and citizens to uphold freedom of worship, protect sacred spaces, and foster a culture of peace and mutual respect. Despite the tragedy, there is a hopeful sense that unity and constructive dialogue can reinforce the values that bind Fiji’s diverse communities together, ensuring that all faiths can gather in safety and harmony.
Summary: A violent attack on a Hindu temple in Sawani drew swift condemnation from Acting Prime Minister Kamikamica, who reaffirmed Fiji’s dedication to religious freedom, unity, and lawful justice. Police investigations are underway amid a broader national conversation about protecting places of worship and strengthening interfaith dialogue to safeguard Fiji’s multicultural society.
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